What is HackMaster Basic?

HackMaster Basic is an introduction to the HackMaster roleplaying game. Its focus is on beginning characters and presents fewer rules and options than the full-blown game.

Why did we do this you ask? Well, HackMaster readdresses many core fundamentals long time roleplayers have come to accept as gospel. Shields and heavy armor that irrationally make you harder to hit, minor magics that scale with the level of the caster, static armor classes… the list goes on.

It’s a new way of thinking about gaming. Grittier and tougher. This is a game after all and by definition a game must present a risk of failure. Player characters do not begin play as superheroes. There are no participation trophies handed out to everyone merely for attending. Bragging rights must be earned the old fashioned way by clever play and risking death.

We sincerely believe the rewards from this style of play are far greater than having everything handed to you on a mithril platter and battling half-god/demon/dragons. We want everyone to have the opportunity to experience this style of play.

Most new RPGs have a fairly hefty price tag. This may be eminently warranted by the production values of the books. However, it understandably can make a potential player squeamish if he’s unsure whether of not he will truly enjoy the game. HackMaster Basic actively combats these fears with a decidedly friendly price point (FREE) for a complete RPG with detailed Player and GameMaster sections along with a bestiary of over 70 monsters for your game. It’s a full RPG all in one book.

If you like the system, there is room to grow as the Player’s Handbook and Hacklopedia of Beasts both expand upon the offerings presented in Basic. Basic is not a game to itself – characters can freely migrate to the advanced options. Plus you have the security of continued support with a variety of pre-packaged adventure modules and a extensively detailed home world.

This is it, the definitive work by the esteemed sage Greytar. Within these pages he catalogues a collection of the most varied and interesting creatures that populate the Kingdoms of Kalamar. A stunning 384 page hardcover that sets a new standard for monsterous cyclopedias.

This starter (yet fully forward compatible) edition of HackMaster features simplified rules perfect for initial play to 5th level. It is a complete game (231 pages) with player and GM sections, a selection of 70+ monsters and 3 scenarios ready to explore.